Here at Dragonfire Landscaping, as a family-owned and operated business, our commitment to quality and excellence extends to building the structures that define and enhance your outdoor living space, including fences and decks. These aren’t just additions; they’re integral components that provide privacy, safety, and create functional, beautiful areas for relaxation and entertainment. When you trust us with your fence or deck project, you’re getting expert craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail from start to finish.
So, let’s explore what goes into a professional fence or deck installation when you choose a landscaping company like ours:
1. The Planning and Design Phase: Building Your Vision
This initial stage is critical for ensuring the final structure perfectly meets your needs and complements your property.
Initial Consultation & Site Assessment: We start by listening. What are your goals for the fence (privacy, security, aesthetics, pet containment)? For a deck, what activities will it accommodate (dining, lounging, grilling)? We’ll discuss material preferences (wood, vinyl, composite for decks; wood, vinyl, chain-link, ornamental iron for fences), styles, and budget. We then assess your property, considering:
Property Lines: Crucial for fences to ensure we stay within your legal boundaries and comply with local ordinances in Corpus Christi.
Grade and Terrain: Slopes, existing trees, and other landscape features will influence design and construction methods.1
Utility Lines: Identifying underground utilities (gas, water, electrical) is paramount for safe digging.2 We handle utility marking requests.
Sun Exposure & Views: For decks, this impacts placement for optimal sunlight, shade, and desired vistas.
Permitting & Regulations: Many fence and deck installations in Corpus Christi require permits and must adhere to specific building codes, height restrictions, and setback requirements.3 As professionals, we navigate this process for you, ensuring all necessary permits are obtained and the design complies with local regulations, saving you time and potential headaches.
Custom Design & Material Selection: We create a detailed design plan, often with drawings, specifying dimensions, materials, and features. We’ll present material samples and discuss their pros and cons (durability, maintenance, appearance, cost) to help you make informed decisions that align with your aesthetic and practical needs.
2. The Site Preparation Phase: Laying the Groundwork
Proper preparation ensures the longevity and stability of your new fence or deck.
Clearing and Leveling: The designated area will be cleared of any obstacles, debris, or vegetation. For decks, the ground needs to be carefully graded and leveled to ensure a stable foundation.
Layout and Marking: We meticulously measure and mark the exact locations for fence posts or deck footings, ensuring precise alignment and adherence to the design plan.
3. The Construction Phase: Expert Craftsmanship
This is where our skilled team brings your design to life, employing best practices for durability and aesthetics.
Fence Installation:
Post Setting: Posts are the backbone of any fence.4 We dig holes to the appropriate depth (below the frost line where applicable, ensuring stability against our local soil conditions) and set posts securely in concrete. Proper spacing and alignment are critical.
Framing and Paneling: Once posts are set and cured, we install the horizontal rails and then attach the fence panels or pickets, ensuring consistent spacing and secure fastening.5 Gates are custom-built and installed with high-quality hardware for smooth operation.
Deck Installation:
Foundation/Footings: We dig and pour concrete footings to establish a robust and stable foundation for the deck’s support posts, ensuring it meets all local building codes for load-bearing capacity.
Framing: The substructure, including posts, beams, and joists, is meticulously built according to the design plan.6 All connections are made with appropriate fasteners and hardware for maximum strength and safety.
Decking Surface: The chosen decking material (wood, composite, or PVC) is then carefully installed, ensuring proper spacing for drainage and expansion, and secured with hidden fasteners or visible screws, depending on the material and aesthetic.
Railings and Stairs: Safety is paramount. We build and install sturdy railings that meet code requirements, along with any necessary stairs, ensuring they are safe, secure, and complement the deck’s design.
4. Finishing Touches and Cleanup
Our job isn’t complete until your property is immaculate and your new structure is ready for enjoyment.
Final Inspections: We conduct a thorough inspection to ensure all elements are correctly installed, secure, and meet our high standards of quality and excellence.
Cleanup and Debris Removal: All construction debris, excess materials, and tools are removed from your property. We leave your site clean, tidy, and ready for you to enjoy your new fence or deck.
By choosing Dragonfire Landscaping for your fence and deck installation, you’re selecting a family-owned and operated business that combines meticulous planning, expert craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of local conditions to deliver durable, beautiful, and valuable additions to your Corpus Christi home.